Last Updated: February 2026
Charitable organizations that solicit contributions in Kentucky are generally required to register with the Kentucky Attorney General before engaging in fundraising activities within the state.
Kentucky provides several statutory exemptions from registration. However, exemption eligibility is narrower than many nonprofits assume, and certain fundraising structures eliminate exemption eligibility.
This page explains who qualifies for exemption from Kentucky charitable solicitation registration and when registration is required.
For an overview of how charitable registration systems operate nationally, see:
How Charitable Registration Works
When Registration Is Required in Kentucky
A charitable organization must register in Kentucky if it:
- Solicits contributions in Kentucky, or
- Has contributions solicited on its behalf in Kentucky.
Registration must generally be completed before solicitation begins.
Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt simply because they are incorporated elsewhere.
For multi-state context:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements by State
https://www.ironwoodregistrations.com/charitable-solicitation-registration-requirements/
Kentucky Charitable Registration Exemptions
Kentucky provides categorical exemptions and a limited small-organization exemption.
Some exemptions require filing an exemption request with the Attorney General.
1. Small Organization Exemption ($25,000 Threshold)
An organization may qualify for exemption if:
- It does not receive more than $25,000 in gross contributions during a fiscal year; and
- All fundraising activities are conducted by unpaid volunteers.
Key considerations:
- The $25,000 threshold applies to total contributions, not just Kentucky-based donations.
- If contributions exceed the threshold, registration must occur promptly.
- Use of compensated fundraising personnel or professional solicitors eliminates eligibility.
Organizations relying on this exemption should monitor revenue levels carefully.
For broader strategy considerations:
How Many States Must Nonprofits Register In?
https://www.ironwoodregistrations.com/resources/how-many-states-must-nonprofits-register/
2. Religious Organizations
Certain religious organizations are exempt from registration.
This generally includes churches and organizations operated primarily for religious purposes.
However, separately incorporated charitable affiliates or religious organizations conducting broader public fundraising may require further analysis.
3. Educational Institutions
Accredited educational institutions are exempt.
This typically includes schools, colleges, and universities operating within recognized educational frameworks.
Affiliated foundations should evaluate exemption eligibility independently.
4. Governmental Entities
Federal, state, and local governmental entities are exempt from charitable registration requirements.
5. Political Organizations
Political candidates, parties, and political committees required to file reports under election law are exempt.
This does not extend to general charitable advocacy organizations.
6. Certain Federated Organizations
Organizations that receive funding solely through a federated fundraising organization (such as a United Way–type entity) and do not independently solicit contributions may qualify for exemption.
If independent solicitation occurs, registration is generally required.
What Kentucky Does Not Exempt
Kentucky does not provide:
- A blanket exemption for all 501(c)(3) organizations
- An exemption for organizations that compensate fundraising personnel
- An exemption for national nonprofits simply because they are headquartered elsewhere
Because the revenue threshold is relatively modest, many multi-state nonprofits exceed it quickly.
Online Fundraising and Kentucky
If your nonprofit:
- Accepts online donations from Kentucky residents,
- Conducts email or digital campaigns targeting Kentucky, or
- Uses national donation platforms that generate Kentucky contributions,
registration is typically required unless a clear exemption applies.
For digital fundraising analysis:
Online Fundraising & Charleston Principles
Renewal and Reporting Considerations
Kentucky requires annual renewal and financial reporting for registered charities.
Audit or review requirements may apply depending on contribution levels.
Finance leaders should coordinate charitable registration compliance with annual Form 990 preparation to avoid delays or enforcement issues.
For governance considerations:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Mistakes
Multi-State Planning Context
An organization exempt in Kentucky may still be required to register in neighboring states such as Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia.
Conversely, organizations exempt elsewhere may exceed Kentucky’s $25,000 threshold and trigger registration here.
For broader exemption strategy guidance:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
If your organization is evaluating Kentucky exemption eligibility as part of a national fundraising strategy: